Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Each and every Friday we offer songs by local artists. Today’s selection, featured on The Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is “Own Stunts” by Breathe Owl Breathe from their 2010 album Magic Central on Hometapes.
According to frontman Micah Middaugh’s bio page, Breathe Owl Breathe’s name actually came to him in a rather odd dream one night involving an owl and a mouse. With such a specific nature-oriented dream, it came as no surprise that the band decided to record their fittingly titled debut album, Magic Central, at a cabin in the woods of Northern Michigan. Signed to Portland label Hometapes, the three-piece would probably remind you of Beach House if you had to give a comparison, but the sparse sound and unique instrumentation make this different. Today’s Song of the Day is a haunting example of their sound, with gentle guitars and piano highlighting the unique vocal style of Micah Middaugh. Despite the possibly wintery feel of an album recorded in a log cabin (re: Bon Iver), the album as a whole has a surprisingly warm overall feel. This is an amazingly creative band that should be on your radar.
You can listen to more from the band on their MySpace page as well as on their website. And you’ll have an opportunity to see them live in Seattle this Thursday when they play the Tractor Tavern on October 21st. For now, enjoy this official video for “Own Stunts”:
